How to Get Global Entry for Free: Tips and Tricks
Are you a frequent international traveler? If so, you may want to consider enrolling in the Global Entry program, which can help you breeze through customs and immigration when returning to the United States. But with a $100 fee for a five-year membership, the cost of enrolling in Global Entry can add up. Luckily, there are several ways to get Global Entry for free! Read on to learn more about these tips and tricks.
Getting Global Entry for Free with Credit Cards
One of the easiest ways to get Global Entry for free is by having the right credit card. Many credit card companies offer a fee waiver as a perk for their cardholders. Here are some of the credit cards that offer this benefit:
- American Express Platinum Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
To take advantage of this perk, simply apply for Global Entry as usual and pay the $100 fee. Once you receive your Global Entry membership number, contact your credit card company and request a fee reimbursement. Each credit card has a different process for offering this benefit, but most require you to submit a receipt or a statement showing the fee charge.
Programs That Offer Global Entry as a Benefit
Another way to get Global Entry for free is through loyalty programs offered by airlines, hotels and other travel companies. Here are some of the programs that offer this benefit:
- Delta SkyMiles
- United MileagePlus
- Marriott Bonvoy
- Hertz Gold Plus Rewards
The application process for obtaining Global Entry through these programs varies, but usually involves applying through the program’s website and submitting proof of membership. For example, to obtain Global Entry through Delta SkyMiles, you must have at least Platinum Medallion Status and complete a brief application on the Delta website.
Promotions and Offers
Periodically, there are promotions and offers that allow travelers to get Global Entry for free. For example, during certain times of the year, the U.S. government will offer a fee waiver to travelers who enroll in Global Entry. Additionally, some credit card companies, such as Chase, periodically offer a statement credit for the Global Entry fee as a sign-up bonus for new cardholders.
To take advantage of these promotions and offers, you need to keep an eye out and act quickly. Many of these offers have limited availability or expire quickly. Check the Global Entry website and follow social media accounts for travel companies to stay up-to-date on current offers.
Claiming a Global Entry Fee Reimbursement
If your employer requires you to travel internationally for work, they may offer to cover the fee for your Global Entry membership. To obtain reimbursement, you typically need to submit a receipt or statement showing the fee charge, along with proof that the travel was work-related. Your employer may also require you to submit additional documentation, such as an explanation of the benefits of Global Entry or a supervisor’s approval.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Applying
If you don’t qualify for any of the above methods for obtaining Global Entry for free, you can still apply for the program at a cost of $100 for a five-year membership. Here are the step-by-step instructions for applying:
- Visit the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) and create an account.
- Follow the instructions to fill out the application, which includes providing personal information, travel history and answers to security questions.
- Pay the $100 fee using a credit card.
- Wait to hear back from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency about your application status. You may need to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, where your fingerprints and photo will be taken.
Be sure to read the application instructions carefully and provide all required documentation to avoid delays or rejections.
Conclusion
Global Entry can make international travel easier and faster, but the $100 fee for a five-year membership can be a deterrent. With these tips and tricks, you can obtain Global Entry for free and save money. Whether you take advantage of a credit card perk, loyalty program benefit or special promotion, it’s worth investing the time to enroll in the Global Entry program.
Remember to stay up-to-date on new promotions and offers, and to keep your documentation organized and ready for reimbursement claims or applications.
